Adulticiding treatment planned for Skywest Golf Course in Hayward and Oro Loma Sanitary District in San Lorenzo.

HAYWARD, SEPTEMBER 30- Mosquitoes infected with West Nile virus have been detected in traps placed near Skywest Golf Course and Oro Loma Sanitary District. In response, the Alameda County Mosquito Abatement District will be treating for adult mosquitoes on Thursday, October 1st from approximately 9pm to 3am, weather permitting. District personnel will be applying Pyrenone 25-5 Public Health Insecticide at a rate of  .04oz./acre by a truck mounted ultra low volume sprayer. The areas targeted for the treatment are shown in the maps below.

“The presence of multiple West Nile virus infected mosquitoes at this site is a threat to the health of people living in nearby neighborhoods,” said District manager Ryan Clausnitzer. “The District is dedicated to protecting the health of Alameda County residents and based on our surveillance, we feel that action is needed to reduce the presence of adult mosquitoes in this area.”

To date in Alameda County, 15 West Nile virus positive dead birds, and 11 groups of positive mosquitoes have been detected. No human cases have been reported.  The District continues its surveillance and larval control program throughout the county. Residents are urged to be proactive by eliminating sources of water where mosquitoes can breed and protecting themselves from mosquito bites. If you come across a dead bird please report it by calling (877)WNV-BIRD or online at www.westnile.ca.gov

As of September 30th, California has had 1004 dead birds, 2,768 mosquito samples, 314 sentinel chickens, and 201 humans test positive for West Nile virus. Ten people in California have died from West Nile virus this year.

West Nile virus is transmitted to people and animals through the bite of an infected mosquito. There is no cure for West Nile virus. Approximately one in five people  who are infected with West Nile virus will develop symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, or rash. Less than one percent will develop a serious neurologic illness such as encephalitis or meningitis. Adults over 50 years old and people with compromised immune systems are at increased risk of serious complications. Anyone who develops symptoms should seek medical care immediately. For information concerning West Nile virus symptoms or testing please contact the Alameda County Public Health Department at (510)267-3250.

Since horses are very susceptible to West Nile virus and vaccines are available, horse owners are advised to contact their veterinarians immediately about timely vaccinations.

For information about mosquitoes, West Nile virus, or the fogging operation please visit our website: www.mosquitoes.org. Residents can request mosquitofish for their fish ponds, horse troughs, etc. by contacting our District office. We are located in Hayward at 23187 Connecticut St. Our phone number is (510)783-7744.